Its magical mountains, lakes and forests have made Slovenia a must-visit destination – but there’s so much more for travellers to discover in this country of rich contrasts
Boutique destinations offering authentic, off-the-beaten-track experiences are becoming the way to travel, as holidaymakers increasingly question the value of overtourism, nature-exploiting excursions and holiday cliches. Just over two hours away by plane, Slovenia fits the boutique bill – and then some. You’ll find gorgeous scenery, outdoor adventure and wellness, as well as vibrant cities, culture and superb gastronomy. Welcome to the green heart of Europe …
Slovenia has a long and rich history – and a vast amount of culture to show for it. The capital Ljubljana is distinguished by its outstanding art nouveau buildings, but also boasts some breathtaking baroque architecture. Away from the cities, sprawling medieval castles dot the landscape, and you’ll find bijou churches and chapels hidden away in the hills – and there are plenty of small, beautifully preserved old towns such as Škofja Loka, Kranj, Piran or Maribor waiting to be discovered.
There’s no shortage of museums and galleries, with enough in Ljubljana alone to keep you busy for several days. Standouts include Cukrarna, Ljubljana’s brand new contemporary art gallery housed in a former sugar refinery; the National Gallery in Ljubljana, along with the Museum of Modern Art and the Slovenian Ethnographic Museum; and Plečnik House, a museum dedicated to the work of Slovenia’s greatest architect Jože Plečnik, sited in his former home. Offsetting these are smaller alternative galleries, and there’s plenty of edgy street art in Ljubljana’s Metelkova district.
